Diplomatic Immunity--Preface: Vasha's Discovery, Part II

[Rystil Arden]

"Oh, Vasha...this water you can call forth--it isn't like the water that Marrik and I can summon at all--this water has natural life-energy in it like pure spring-water...That's amazing!"

 

[Bront]

"It's a gift from Arris for carrying the Jhyram Arris. It will always be a small part of me. It was amazing when I could repair the world by symbiosis and embracing it, but I don't think it would be right for me to keep the Jhyram Arris in me forever."

"Mother, did you know Daddy hit it in me?"

 

[Rystil Arden]

"The Jhyram Arris...I heard my dearest Marrik tell stories about it before, but he never told even me that he had found it. I'm sorry, Vasha--I wish that I could have been of help to you in at least that."

 

[Bront]

"Maybe he thought it was safer if he didn't tell anyone," Vasha says. "Or maybe he didn't know. What stories did he tell mother?"

 

[Rystil Arden]

"Stories about the three Jewels of Arris, that most even among the Mojiin said were just fairytales, but he was convinced they were real...of the golden age of joy and plenty that they would bring to Arris some day..."

 

[Bront]

"Well, all I know is that supposedly they are used up in the ritual that will restore Arris to what it was, lush with life. But the dragonlords will suck it back up again." Vasha frowns.

 

[Rystil Arden]

"They will? That doesn't sound good at all...Well, maybe this time they won't?"

 

[Bront]

"Well, a Dragonlord can use power from the world around them, but like like an Ecomancer, or even a nymph can. Our power works in harmony with the world, taking only what we need and giving back in return. Dragonlords just take, and they are what has turned Arris into the desolate place that it is. That's why Alyz wanted to make a nexus with the jewels, to make an alternate source of power to let Arris heal. Or at least that's what she told me."

Vasha sighs "I guess I shouldn't get worked up over it right now. In time, I will return, and Daddy can tell me of his plan. But for now I can simply wait."

 

[Rystil Arden]

"Yes, I think you're right...we have plenty of time, and we can always wait a little while longer. Best to just relax and enjoy life while we go, right my darling daughter?"

 

[Bront]

"Yes, you're right." Vasha gives her mother a kiss.

"I'm invited to my Brother Bertram's wedding, and though it might be best to simply go to meet him at his home. I think that's where I'm heading next. Though I'm glad to spend some time with you Mother. You're welcome to come with."